Influence of Family Dynamics on Adolescent Substance Abuse of Alcohol. A Case of Mpwere Village, Chiradzulu District, Malawi.

Abstract

Family dynamics play a significant role in adolescent substance abuse. Various factors within the family environment can influence the likelihood of adolescents engaging in substance use. The study employed a mixed-methods research because the research questions could best be answered through a combination of quantitative and qualitative data focusing on the role of family dynamics and adolescent substance abuse. The study population for this study involved an estimated population of 100 youths aged between 18-35 years and parents of Mphwere Village. The first objective was to examine how lohmweh cultural norms influence family dynamics and adolescent substance abuse in Mphwere Village. The findings clearly demonstrate that Lohmweh cultural norms significantly shape family dynamics and adolescent substance use in Mphwere Village. Cultural practices influence decision-making, discipline, and attitudes toward alcohol, with fathers and grandparents holding dominant authority in households, reflecting patriarchal and extended family structures that guide how families operate. Disciplinary practices rooted in tradition ranging from corporal punishment to involvement of community elders show the role of cultural values in shaping parenting approaches. The second objective was to assess the effect of parental supervision on adolescent substance abuse within extended families in Mphwere Village. The study revealed that while 43% of adolescents believed it was very likely and 26% somewhat likely that their parents or guardians would notice any changes in behaviour related to alcohol or drug use, a notable minority (32%) felt it was unlikely or very unlikely that such behaviours would be detected. This suggests that limited or inconsistent parental supervision may increase adolescents’ vulnerability to peer pressure and substance use, whereas attentive and engaged parenting acts as a protective factor, discouraging experimentation with substances. The third objective was to investigate how parental education contribute to adolescent substance abuse in Mphwere Village. The finding that addresses the second objective assessing the effect of parental supervision on adolescent substance abuse within extended families in Mphwere Village relates to the reported patterns of parental monitoring and involvement. Specifically, respondents indicated varying levels of parental oversight, with some parents consistently supervising their children’s activities and school performance, while others provided minimal or irregular guidance. This variation in supervision suggests that adolescents with limited parental oversight may be more susceptible to experimenting with substances, whereas those experiencing regular monitoring and guidance are likely better protected against substance use. Based on findings of study, it was commendations that Mphwere Village should designing substance abuse prevention programs that respect Lohmweh cultural norms, engaging elders and community leaders to align interventions with local traditions and authority structures. The study also recommends Mphwere Village should encourage parents and guardians to consistently monitor adolescents’ activities and behaviours, providing guidance and support to reduce susceptibility to substance use